Organisers hope to replicate the scale of its flagship F&B event for hotels, restaurants, and catering
Technology and sustainability were the key themes that surfaced at the soft launch of THAIFEX-HOREC Asia, an event focused on the food & beverage industry, held in Bangkok last week.
From contactless technology to plant-based menus and food waste, it is clear that the convergence of tech and sustainability is weaving a thread through how hospitality presents itself through its f&b experiences, which account for a huge part of a hotel’s revenues, beyond room stays.
Held as part of THAIFEX-Anuga Asia, the largest F&B trade show of its kind in the world, the event noted sustainability as a “vital trend in the hotel industry that covers everything from furniture designs and practices that promote a responsible and eco-conscious image”.
It cited contactless technology which is transforming the guest experience while digitalised guest experiences are being enhanced through the integration of robot servers, improving efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Plant-based menus are on the rise, and there has been an emergence of startups developing animal-identical fats and alternative meat options. Data-driven approaches are also being employed to create the next generation of plant-based cheese.
Food waste is being addressed by beverage makers through upcycling ingredients into sustainable zero-waste drinks, while AI-driven solutions help hotels manage and end waste, optimising inventory and supporting sustainable practices.
It noted energy efficiency as another important trend, in light of the rising costs that is hitting hotels everywhere from Phuket to Poland.
This year, Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC), and Koelnmesse collaborated to present THAIFEX – Anuga Asia in its return to form. They hope to transfer the same momentum to THAIFEX HORECA – Asia next year.
Soft launch of THAIFEX HOREC – Asia 2024, which took place at the Xperiential Zone at THAIFEX – Anuga Asia this year
Director-General, Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, said, “As the projected value of the HoReCa industry soars to US$2.38 trillion by 2028, our trade show aims to leverage Asia’s post-pandemic tourism boom and reinforce Thailand’s position as a regional hub. Supported by government backing, infrastructure development, and a vibrant hospitality scene, we are set to make a significant impact.”
“The closure of hotels and staff retrenchment has had a deep impact on the local economy,” said Chairman of The Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC), Sanan Angubolkul.
Mathias Kuepper, managing director and VP Asia-Pacific, Koelnmesse, said, “The long-term goals of THAIFEX – HORECA Asia are to drive continuous innovation, foster collaboration, and ensure sustainable growth within the HORECA industry.” THAIFEX – HOREC Asia will take place from March 6 to 8, 2024, at IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, Thailand, and aims to attract over 300 leading brands and 20,000 trade visitors from South-east Asia and key cities across Asia Pacific.
THAIFEX – HOREC Asia will take place from March 6 to 8, 2024, at IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, Thailand, and aims to attract over 300 leading brands and 20,000 trade visitors from South-east Asia and key cities across Asia Pacific.
